Mart, stringing of beads and bead work has been a long standing tradition in Russia and the Ukraine area for a v-e-r-y long time. It was one of those handicrafts that girls were taught (mainly needlework (“nyzynka”), embroidery, crewel embroidery in English terms) which is a dying art and some are trying to revive there. Beading was taught as well, but not as prevalent because of the cost of beads, but still taught.
I do think this was a piece of family handiwork and a great Family Heirloom. If in fact the story is correct, this has been a treasured piece in this family and people have worked hard to preserve it. Once you do find out the correct composition of the piece you should compile the information and attach it to the back of the frame so that future generations can try and get the depth of importance of the piece!
